Civil Rights

Sexual Harassment

At Patterson Harkavy LLP, we are proud of our record of success on behalf of workers in cases of sexual harassment. Our attorneys have represented victims of sexual harassment across the state, and secured the largest jury award in state history representing five such victims against a real estate company. Another case against the North Carolina Department of Correction resulted in a new law protecting state employees from harassment.

If you believe to be the victim of sexual harassment, our attorneys are here to help.

What is unlawful sexual harassment?

Unlawful sexual harassment can occur when an employer or supervisor demands sexual favors in exchange for employment benefits, or when sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other conduct affects an individuals’ employment, interferes with an individual’s work performance, or creates an intimidating or hostile work environment.

Sexual harassment takes many forms. It can include sexual gestures, sexual images, and learing; it can include unwanted sexual advances, jokes, and comments; and it can include assault or unwanted touching.

What laws make sexual harassment unlawful at the workplace?

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1965. Title VII applies to employers with 15 or more employees, as well as employment agencies, labor organizations, and the federal government.

If you have been the victim of unlawful sexual harassment, you have the right to ask that the harassment stop. Many employers will have a method for dealing with sexual harassment, permitting you to complain to an office, such as human resources, about the harassment. If the harassment continues despite your efforts to put a stop to it, or if your employer retaliates against you because of your effort to stop the unlawful harassment, you may have a federal claim against your employer.

North Carolina State Law also has provisions in place that make workplace harassment unlawful. Employees have the right to work in a workplace free from sexual harassment and retaliation. North Carolina law covers both full-time and part-time employees whether they are permanent or temporary employees. North Carolina also recognizes the legal claims of emotional distress and civil battery in sexual harassment cases.

What can I do?

Our attorneys have a proven track record of representing the victims of sexual harassment across North Carolina. If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment in your workplace call Patterson Harkavy at 1-800-458-2541 or contact us online today.

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